The Debt Collectors Licensing Act 1964 sets out the licensing requirements for debt collectors operating in Western Australia and their duty to handle trust funds responsibly.
Who needs a licence?
Anyone who carries on the business of, exercises the functions of or in any way holds themselves out to be working as a debt collector or performing any of the functions of a debt collector is required to be licensed as specified under the Act. Exemptions are listed in Section 4 of the Debt Collectors Act.
Conducting business as a debt collector without the appropriate licence is an offence. Anyone operating without a licence is not entitled to be paid for their services.
Consumer Protection licence and registration search
Show moreThe online licence search can help you find a licensed debt collector.
How to use the online licence search
Search by number: You can check if a licence number is still valid. Type the number into the field on the opening screen.
Search by type of licence: You can look for licensed people in your neighbourhood. Click on ‘Type’. Start typing in the licence type in the box eg. debt collector. Then type in either a name or location.
Mutual Recognition
Show moreIf you are registered or licensed as a settlement agent elsewhere in Australia or New Zealand, and want to be registered in Western Australia, you may be able to apply for mutual recognition to get a WA licence or automatic mutual recognition to have your licence recognised in WA.
